Driving always comes with risks, especially in urban areas where there are other drivers with reckless tendencies. Some factors could be manageable, such as removing distractions and avoiding drunk driving. However, other substances could cause impairments and pose threats when driving.
Medication, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, could endanger drivers. Even cold medicine or pain relievers could have severe side effects, varying from drowsiness to nausea. These issues could impair drivers and make them unfit to operate a motor vehicle. However, these medicines could be necessary to treat an illness or health condition.
- Pain relievers
- Medication for mental health illnesses, such as anxiety or depression
- Antiepileptics
- Antipsychotic medicine
- Any substance containing codeine
- Antihistamines
- Sleeping pills
- Relaxants for muscles
- Diarrhea and motion sickness pills
- Diet pills
- Any medicine with stimulants
Other medications could cause fatigue and lethargy, making it dangerous to drive. They might endanger themselves and others by doing so.
Minimizing side effects and addressing driving hazards
Unfortunately, impairments caused by medication could vary. Sometimes, people could experience mild side effects while others suffer from intense sleepiness, potentially causing fainting. These symptoms could also change depending on the patient’s physical condition and if they are taking other medication.
Nevertheless, these medical interventions could be necessary to address specific health problems. If so, drivers could ask a doctor or a pharmacist about the medicine and its dosage to determine ways to minimize their side effects. They could also address driving risks by seeking alternative modes of transportation while taking their medication. Doing so could help drivers reduce the chances of getting in an accident, potentially saving themselves and others.
